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Compare Zofran vs. Compazine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ondansetron (Zofran) and prochlorperazine (Compazine) are both used to treat nausea and vomiting, but they have some key differences. Ondansetron is an antiemetic that works by blocking serotonin in the brain, while prochlorperazine is a phenothiazine that blocks dopamine. Ondansetron is available in various forms, including tablets, dissolvable tablets, oral solution, and injections, and is typically taken every 8 to 12 hours. Prochlorperazine, on the other hand, is usually taken 3 to 4 times daily and is also used to treat schizophrenia and generalized anxiety disorder. Ondansetron is considered safer during pregnancy, although it is not FDA-approved for this use, whereas prochlorperazine is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the baby. Prochlorperazine can cause serious side effects like uncontrolled muscle movements and extreme sleepiness, making it less favorable for long-term use. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

  • Ondansetron (Zofran)
    Prochlorperazine
  • Ondansetron (Zofran)
    Prochlorperazine

  • Summary of Zofran vs. Compazine

    Summary for Antiemetic
    Prescription only

    Ondansetron (Zofran) is an antiemetic (or anti-nausea) medication. It's used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery or cancer treatments. It works by stopping a chemical called serotonin from binding to receptors in the brain that cause the feeling of nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron (Zofran) is taken by mouth, typically every 8 to 12 hours. It comes in different formulations, including orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) and oral solution. It can also be given as injection by a healthcare professional (HCP) in a hospital setting. Side effects of this medication include headache, tiredness, and constipation or diarrhea.

    Summary for Phenothiazine
    Prescription only

    Prochlorperazine is used to treat severe nausea and vomiting. It's also used to improve mood, thoughts, and behaviors for people with schizophrenia and anxiety. It's not a first-choice medication because it can cause serious side effects, such as extreme sleepiness, falls, and uncontrolled muscle movements. Prochlorperazine comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically 3 to 4 times daily. The brand name version of prochlorperazine (Compazine) is no longer available.

  • Indications of Zofran vs. Compazine

    Indications for
    •Prevention of nausea and vomiting due to cancer medications (chemotherapy) or radiation therapy
    •Prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgery
    Indications for
    •Severe nausea and vomiting
    •Schizophrenia
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

  • Pros and Cons of Zofran vs. Compazine

    Pros and Const for Antiemetic
    Pros
    •Can use for both adults and children
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Available as a liquid, dissolvable tablet, and injection for people who have problems swallowing pills or are too nauseous to keep medication down
    •Possible option during pregnancy and breastfeeding
    Cons
    •Needs to be taken multiple times daily
    •Might cause headache
    •Can interact with certain medications, like antidepressants and migraine medications
    •Not the best option for people who are at risk for stomach or gut blockages (bowel problems)
    Pros and Const for Phenothiazine
    Pros
    •Available as a generic medication
    •Available as an oral tablet or suppository for treating nausea and vomiting
    •Typically starts working in 30 minutes and effects last up to 4 hours
    Cons
    •Many serious and sometimes possibly permanent side effects, such as uncontrolled muscle movements
    •Can't be used in children under 2 years old or under 20 pounds due to higher risk of serious side effects
    •Not recommended for use in pregnancy or during breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Zofran vs. Compazine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (up to 24%)
    •Fatigue (up to 13%)
    •Constipation (up to 9%)
    •Diarrhea (up to 6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    •Absent menstrual periods
    •Blurry vision
    •Low blood pressure

  • Warnings of Zofran vs. Compazine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reactions
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Risk of heart attack
    •Masking of gut blockage and stomach bloating
    •Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only
    Common Side Effects for
    •Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis
    •Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)
    •Other conditions with uncontrolled muscle movements (dystonia, Parkinsonian symptoms, and restlessness)
    •Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)
    •Cover up more serious health problems
    •Higher risk of infections
    •Higher risk of falls
    •Liver problems
    •Seizures
    •High prolactin levels
    •Difficulty maintaining normal body temperature

  • Prices with our coupons for Zofran vs. Compazine

    Learn more about Ondansetron
    Learn more about Prochlorperazine

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